Tag: Pet

My family never had a pet. Not counting the koi that we were gifted that quickly met their demise via the neighbourhood cat and an overflowing pond.

On the other hand, the Other Half always had many pet cats in his life.

I was uncomfortable with animals. Petting them on the heads or backs was fine. No belly rubs, scratches under chin and if the animal so as much playfully swiped at me, I was outta there.

In stark contrast, the Other Half would be merrily attempting to pet and carry every stray cat we saw.

When we got our own place, he hopefully mentioned that perhaps we could have pet cats in the future. I declined vehemently, saying that I didn’t think I would ever be ready for a pet.

For about a year plus after that, I got to know Flapper Choo and his brothers and sisters. Almost weekly, I met and played (swam) with Flapper and Frodo, both huge dogs weighing slightly over 30kg.

Due to their size and weight, they easily came up past my waist and could just as easily knock me down. What really helped to ease my discomfort was how well they had been trained. They were so well-behaved, quiet and listened to instructions.

Flapper was also an exceptionally clever dog which greatly impressed me.

Meeting them regularly helped me to understand their different personalities and quirks, endearing me to them.

However, that was insufficient for me agreeing to have a pet.

One day, Flapper’s and Frodo’s owner sent the Other Half a picture of a rescued cat.

She felt that the cat’s temperament would suit me, a first time pet owner.

We went to visit the cat and upon seeing the Other Half, he trotted over and plonked himself right into the Other Half’s lap. I smiled and patted the Other Half’s head, announcing that both boys were very happy.

It took us awhile before finally agreeing to adopt the cat, renamed, Tyrael1.